MOUNT VERNON — Free tax preparation assistance is available at United Way of Knox County through the financial stability initiative and fourteen-year partnership with The Ohio Benefit Bank. In the tax year 2017, United Way tax volunteers assisted 563 clients in filing federal income tax returns, garnering a spot in the top 10 Ohio Benefit Bank sites in Ohio.
The goal is to increase the financial stability of residents by offering this free service and help them claim the Earned Income Credit and Child Care Credit whenever possible. The EITC helps individuals and families with low to moderate income keep more of what they earned. This is money that can be used to purchase necessities and boost savings.
Trained volunteers are available to assist with the OBB web-based tax software to complete federal and state taxes. The OBB self-serve site is also available at uwayknox.org — click on free tax preparation assistance. Returns are e-filed and, if eligible, residents may receive refunds through direct deposit in less than 21 days.
Requirements include a gross household income of less than $65,000 in 2018 for single filers or $95,000 for those married filing jointly. The Benefit Bank cannot support rental, real estate, farm, Schedule C business, and clergy income, as well as most capital gains. To see if you are eligible and to schedule an appointment, call United Way at 740-397-5721. Daytime, evening and limited Saturday appointments are available.